“HONEY FROM THE ROCK”
Daily Reflections
Friday, 4th August 2017,
Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time
Memorial of St. John Mary Vianney, Priest
Lev. 23 :1, 4-11,15-16,27, 34-37;
Zab. 8: 2-5, 9-10 (R) 1;
Mt. 13: 54-58.
FERTILE GROUND TO RECEIVE GOD’S BLESSING
Jesus visited his home town Nazareth and preaches the good news, however he faces the unwelcoming attitude of his people. Not only did they refuse to believe in his teaching and his miracles, they also passed rash judgment and ridiculed his family history. "Is not this the Carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary?" They looked at him as a mere ordinary person. Thus they obstructed the reign of God coming among them.
This episode teaches us that we should have openness to listen to others, especially to a learned and wise person even though he/ she is very familiar to us. For God can teach us through our own family members. Secondly, we should be slow to judge anyone by his family history or his former connections. Not every person can be the same as before. We must look at people with a new vision and new perspective. Thirdly, every time we hear the word of God explained to us, we must show eagerness to listen and think not of the person who speaks but the Holy Spirit who speaks through that person. Fourthly, never be discouraged or disheartened by someone's rejection, neither be put off by someone's lack of interest in you. Above all never ever stop doing good to others.
The mighty deeds of the transformation of souls could not take place in Nazareth, due to their lack of faith. The people were clearly obstinate and not open to letting the words and presence of Jesus penetrate their minds and hearts. For that reason, Jesus could not do the mightiest of deeds in His home town.
Are you letting Jesus transform you daily into a new creation? Are you letting Him do great things in your life? If you hesitate in answering this question it is a clear sign that God wants to do much more in your life.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that my soul be fertile ground for Your most magnificent work. I pray that my soul be transformed by You, Your words and Your presence in my life. Come into my heart and transform me into Your masterpiece of grace. Jesus, I trust in You. Amen.